An alligator spent two months with its jaws taped shut before it was captured and re-homed.
The gator - named Georgie - was found in a pond and because of the tape was unable to eat.
Local Amber Lock highlighted its plight last on February 13 and said the little female alligator had been living like it since December.
Amber said “There has been a little alligator living in a fenced retention pond here for many months.
“Middle of December, neighbours discovered the gators snout had been taped shut.”
Amber, who lives nearby in Brandon, Florida, US added: “Apparently, somebody ‘officially’ attempted to ‘trap’ it and it escaped.
“Clearly, the person didn’t know how to complete this task humanely.
“After multiple calls to Florida Fish and Wildlife and Hillsborough County, Florida Government over the past month, the gator is still being tortured and nobody has come to rescue it.”
A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) official said the delay from December was the result of confusion caused by two different permit requests made by two different trappers.
Three days later, Amber said in an update: “They got him. FWC did it.
Original trapper just put Georgie in his truck and is taking him to Gatorama right now for rehab.”
A spokesperson for Gatorama and Crocodile Adventures, an alligator farm and animal park in Palmdale, confirmed that they had received Georgie on the evening of February 16.
The park reassured the many local residents keenly following Georgie’s story: “She is doing fine. Please don’t worry about her ability to live a long happy life here at Gatorama. We will take good care of her.”
Since arriving at Gatorama, employees have been giving regular updates on Georgie’s adaptation to her new home.
A park spokesperson said: “Georgie had a great gator kind of day.
“To our surprise she is eating well. Three pounds the first full day.
“She basked in the sun and explored her pond. No signs of stress or duress at this time.
“She isn’t skittish when her keeper enters her area. Welcome home Georgie girl.”
The park added: “Many times when gators are introduced into a new environment they may stay hidden or at least in the water for a good while. She seems comfortable in her area.”
Local Marcy Hossli said: “So wonderful to hear the great news. Please continue to post her progress.”
“So happy she found a home in your facility.
“Can’t wait to see her on our next visit to the grands in south Florida,” said Camille Esmel McAvoy.
Another added: “I can’t wait to come see her.”
“She somehow knows she is safe now. Bless you all for stepping up and taking her,” remarked Judy Demonico.
Joyce Singster commented: “Love this update. I look forward to seeing more. Georgie Girl is one lucky alligator. And I think she knows it!”
